Flying insect identification is key

Dr. Janis Reed, BCE, Technical Services Manager, Control Solutions Inc.

As with so many other pests, identification is of paramount importance in flying insect management. During the fall, pest management professionals (PMPs) frequently get general “something flying” calls, and must determine the identity of the culprit. It’s also the season to encounter occasional invaders — boxelder bugs, Asian lady beetles, brown marmorated stink bugs, cluster flies, etc. — and these all require knowing a little about how and why these insects have invaded. For the most part, these pests are looking for a place to spend the winter, protected from harsh temperatures; they find that inside our structures.

PMPs can use many methods to manage these pests, but one of my favorites is a vacuum cleaner! Be sure to choose a vacuum with a bypass motor to prevent the spread of defensive chemicals that these insects can produce. A wet-dry vac fits this bill. After removal, do a crack-and-crevice application to potential entry points indoors and outdoors to help stop these pests from coming back.